Editing Services

Shevet is a Hebrew word describing a writer's tool. I chose the definition as my business name because, as a Christian writer, I want what I write to bring glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a copy editor and proofreader, I want to help other Christian writers do the same.

After reviewing the services I provide, please contact me for a free estimate of the service you desire. I look forward to hearing from you. References are also available on request.

I'd love to meet you and see what I can do to help you become an effective writer's tool in the Master's hand.

Critiquing/Review
After reading your manuscript, I will give you a broad overall review of your book, pinpointing its strengths and weaknesses. I'll flag specific problem areas and make general suggestions for improvement. Keep in mind that a critique does not provide detailed advice on manuscript revision; it is one person's opinion of the potential for acceptance by an agent or publisher.

Proofreading
This is most basic form of editing. Proofreading should be done after all the editing is complete. It is the last step before sending the manuscript to an agent or editor. I will do what is called a traditional proofread which includes looking for and correcting:

Copyediting
A copyedit is a line-by-line review of your manuscript. I offer three levels of copyediting, depending on your preferences and expectations from the editing process. As in any level of editing, I will make suggestions on what needs to be changed/improved, but you are responsible for making the actual changes/rewriting yourself. As always, the author retains the right to accept or reject the suggestions I make.

Basic Copyedit
A basic copyedit includes:

Making sure material is logical and understandable

Correcting continuity problems

Making sure sources are cited for all statistics and quotations

Flagging inaccuracies (including incorrect spelling of song or book titles, proper names, dates, or well-known facts; extensive fact-checking is not supplied)

Marking inconsistencies in point of view and tense (fiction)

Pointing out awkward or unclear sentences/paragraphs

Querying the author about all material that needs permission

Reminding the author to check spellings of names

Asking the author to recheck quotes and sources for accuracy

Moderate Copyedit
In addition to the services listed under the basic copyedit, I will review your manuscript for:

Redundancies

Sentence clarity

Word choice

Maintenance of tone/voice

In-Depth Copyedit
In addition to everything in the above levels, an in-depth copyedit will include: